The most recent occurrence of this was when the book Allegiant came out. It is the third book in the Divergent series. It has grown immensely popular since the first book of the series came out. It is often characterized along with the infamous Hunger Games. But in my opinion the plot is entirely different and 10 times better. Throughout reading it I couldn't put it down. I was immersed in it and my love for the characters. Surprises came around every corner and shocked me to the point that my mouth literally dropped open.
I loved the book, but I have to say some of the shocks were very dramatic and stressful for someone like me, who was so involved in the characters and storyline. I was moved to tears by the ending of it. Don't get me wrong, it had a good ending, but the natural reaction of a devoted reader is to want a book or series to go on forever, never ending, no one dying and ending the series. However, this third and final book ended the series and there is no doubt about that. Don't worry, I'll try not to spoil anything.
The storyline of the first book consists of a futuristic society. The main character, Beatrice (later called Tris for short), lives in a city that is divided into factions. It is split into 5 groups, and you have to choose one to live in for the rest of your life, making this life changing choice once you reach a certain age. You can choose to stay in your family's faction, or choose your own, and start your own life. The city encourages them, "faction before blood" meaning choose a section and honor its ways more than your own family.
Each faction has its own traditions, rules and duties that are very easy to fall in love with. Tris grows up in Abnegation, the faction of selflessness. They work for others and never themselves, always wearing gray. They aren't even allowed mirrors or any other "personal" object. When she turns 16, she and other teenagers of the designated age in the city are able to choose to stay in their faction, or choose another life. The other choices are Dauntless- the brave militaristic type that protect the city. They are enthralled by danger, and often looking for thrills like jumping off trains and always wearing the color black. Candor- the law of the city, is fixed on truth. They are infamous for their truth serums and unforgiving nature. They wear black and white to represent how truth is either black or white, no middle ground. Erudite- the smart, technological geniuses of the city, always developing new techniques for an easier life and enthusiastic about learning. They wear blue to represent wisdom, and control much of the city. Amity- the peaceful people of the city. They grow food for the city and represent friendship, and are also musicians. They wear yellow and red to represent happiness. Look below to see the symbols and harmony between the factions.
The whole city is fixated on the factions. Their whole world revolves around it. Surrounding the city lies a fence. "What lies outside the fence?" readers ask throughout the first book. The final book Allegiant reveals all...what happened to the rest of the world, why the factions are the way they are, and you have to keep reading to the very end to find out.
The movie comes out March 21, 2013. I will certainly be attending, geared up as a member of the Amity faction, my favorite. I encourage you to read the entire series. It is one of the best books I have ever read and can envelop you like you wouldn't believe. You'll find out about the abilities of the Divergent in the first book. But first, what faction are you?
